LEGS 11 - OFF THE WALL
REVIEW - CROOKWELL GAZETTE
“Those who look forward to CADS’ annual productions (and that would be most of us)
will not be disappointed with the latest offering - ‘Legs 11 - Off the Wall.’ But
this time around there seems a more confident and in some ways a more professional
look about the production.
Some might be a bit mystified by the title, but this reviewer can guarantee a night
of music and amusement that would find appreciation in much bigger towns than ours.
The first thing about ‘Legs’ that strikes the eye (literally) is the lighting. Over
the years CADS has expanded its stage equipment and its know-how.
Robert Bill has provided an attractive stage setting that allows for the quick entrances
and exits necessary - and his son Simon (with assistance from Nioka Bill and Jessica
Morgan) has designed a dramatic lighting system that dramatises the entrances in
particular, and chimes in with the theme of the music.
The basis for all CADS musical productions is the quality of the singing - and in
this area ‘Legs’ is right up there with the best. The chorus singing is as good as
it has ever been, with more adventurous harmonising and ‘part’ singing which is carried
off beautifully. The choice of songs ranges from the old favourites (which never
seems to pall) and more modern offerings which obviously struck a chord with the
audience on the night this viewer attended. The introduction of a more serious note
in the presentation of ‘Imagine’ and ‘Hallelujah’, both beautifully sung and presented,
was extremely well received.
But of course, the keynote of any CADS production is fun - and again, there were
laughs aplenty. The humorous skits hit the mark, and the pace of the presentation
allows no dull moments. The old favourites are in top form: Darren O’Brien, Chris
Croker, Rhonda Cummins, Beth Pidoux, Janice Ciocca and so on keep the laughs coming.
Darren again shows his versatility, and not just as a comedian. Last year ‘Buckets’
and friends brought the house down as the ‘Three Tenors’. This year they get right
into the action with the Four Seasons (disguised as the Jersey Caramels) into the
action - and got an equally great response. And look for the ‘Lords in Tight Pants’
for some hilarious dancing.
Once again we are indebted to the talents of people like Helen Lowe and Helen Campbell
for the fine singing, Stan Henderson as choreographer and Directors Rhonda Cummins
and Anne Cleary for bringing splendid entertainment to our stage. And the Company
as a whole, because the dedication, time and hard work to produce a programme like
this is very considerable indeed.
But what is always apparent with these CADS musicals is the obvious enjoyment those
involved derive from the performance - a spirit the audiences obviously find contagious.
CADS can be proud of what they do and we the audience can be proud of what this small
community of ours can achieve. Do yourself a favour and make sure you attend one
of the performances and judge for yourself. - BMD
